When Sandra Demontigny was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s in her late 30s, she knew time was not on her side. A mother, advocate, and passionate public speaker from Quebec, Sandra didn’t shy away from the harsh reality of her diagnosis, instead, she stepped into the spotlight to fight for a fundamental right: the ability to plan her death with dignity.

Early-onset Alzheimer’s is a progressive condition that leads to severe memory loss, confusion, and loss of decision-making capacity. For those diagnosed young, the psychological toll can be overwhelming and not just because of what they’ll lose, but because of how quickly their health can deteriorate. Sandra feared reaching a point where she would no longer recognize her children or be able to make informed decisions about her care.

The focus of her advocacy was Canada’s Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) law. Under the original law, individuals had to be mentally competent at the time of the procedure, meaning many people with degenerative cognitive diseases lost access to MAID long before they were ready. Sandra bravely shared her story and called for legislative change, insisting on the right to make an advance request for medical assistance in dying while she was still capable of informed consent.

Her activism helped influence the passage of Bill 11 in Quebec in 2023, a pivotal moment in Canadian healthcare policy. This legislation allows individuals with conditions like Alzheimer’s to prepare advance directives for MAID, giving them a way to exercise control over their end-of-life care before the disease progresses too far.

But Sandra’s impact goes beyond policy. Her journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of early and thorough estate and healthcare planning. Often, people associate estate planning with Wills and asset distribution, but just as critical are medical directives and powers of attorney. These documents ensure that your voice continues to be heard, even if your ability to speak fades.

Through her journey, Sandra teaches people that preparing for the future isn’t about fear, it’s about choice. It’s about crafting a plan that respects your values, relieves your loved ones of impossible decisions, and honors the life you’ve lived.

If you or a loved one are facing a life-altering diagnosis, don’t wait to start planning. Working with an experienced estate planning attorney can help you build a roadmap that reflects your wishes, from healthcare to finances and beyond. Contact us today to learn more!